Range Management Extension Specialist

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for providing programming and extension associated with agriculture in the province of Saskatchewan. The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture helps the agriculture industry manage risk and enables a globally competitive, thriving and sustainable agriculture and food sector by supporting farmers, ranchers and agri-business.

The Regional Services Branch within the Ministry of Agriculture has a dynamic opportunity for a highly-motivated leader with a passion for range management to join their Range Management Extension Specialist team in our Kindersley office.

As a Range Management Extension Specialist, you will support ranchers, pasture patron groups and industry to offer information and advice for optimal management of native and tame perennial forages by:

conducting range health assessment on crown pasture land, and sharing those findings with patron groups;

providing impartial agronomic advice to improve the productivity and resiliency of perennial forage stands; and

working with applied research and demonstration projects to increase the adoption of new agricultural technologies and practices relevant to range and forage management.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced agrologist who has in-depth knowledge of forage production, range management and livestock production in Saskatchewan, and who is:

a leader in the delivery of client service;

an independent worker who also has the ability to collaborate with a team of specialists;

an effective communicator who is able to interpret and transfer relevant information to a variety of audiences;

organized and able to independently prioritize and meet deadlines;

a strong interpersonal leader with demonstrated ability to build and maintain professional relationships with colleagues, technical specialists and industry clients; and

able to identify, analyze and develop viable options, explanations and solutions to complex agricultural production problems.

This position requires the operation of an all terrain vehicle (ATV) and working alone in remote locations. Travel is required and the successful applicant may be required to overnight away from their home location for extended periods during the field season. Applicants must possess a valid class 5 driver's license.

Typically, the competencies required for this position would be obtained through the completion of a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a major in range management and/or livestock production and extensive experience in range management and forage production, extension and agri-business. Applicants must be eligible for membership with the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists as defined by The Agrologists Act.

What we offer:

valuable, engaging and fulfilling work;

a comprehensive benefits package including pension;

vacation, earned days off, and flexibility to assist in maintaining a healthy work/life balance;

an inclusive, supportive and high-performing team culture;

coaching and development opportunities, and

industry network development opportunities.

The Ministry’s deep-rooted values system of innovation, teamwork, integrity, service excellence, and leadership at all levels serve as the foundation to ensure results are achieved. The successful candidate must be a team player, able to both lead and collaborate, with a reputation for integrity and a focus on service excellence and innovation in their work.